We recommend that you update Movable Type whenever a new version becomes available so that you can take advantage of improvements and useful new features. After we have reviewed the stability of a new release, we'll make the update available in your Web Hosting Control Panel. You'll be able to update your tools using one of two methods:

automatic (auto-upgrade): We will update your Movable Type software automatically when new features and improvements become available. We recommend this method for all users.

manual: We will notify you that new features and improvements have become available, and you can upgrade your software yourself using a link in your Blog Manager. You can choose whether to receive upgrade alerts on your Web Hosting Control Panel or via email.

You'll choose an upgrade method when you activate Movable Type. If you choose the custom activation path, you'll select your upgrade method during the activation process, just after you pick your blog settings. In the standard path, we will set the auto-upgrade method for you by default. (You can change this setting anytime.)

To manually update your Movable Type software:

1. When we make updates available, we will notify you on your Web Hosting Control Panel and/or via email, depending on the notification options you chose.
2. Click the notification message or the link in the email to visit your Blog Manager.
3. Click the "Upgrade now" link that corresponds with the blog whose software you want to update.
4. On the following page, select the directory in which your blog files are stored. If the default directory is not the right one, use the "Browse" button to view and select the correct directory.
5. Click the "Upgrade" button to begin updating your software.

Important: You must save the upgrade files in the same directory in which your blog administrative files are stored. Saving the upgrade files to a different directory will not update your blog tools.

When you begin the upgrade process, we'll select a directory based on the links in your Blog Manager. If you have moved your files and have not updated your links in the Blog Manager, you may need to choose a directory other than the default. Use the "Browse" button to view and select the correct directory. (Learn more about the effects of moving your blog files.)

Tip: Not sure which directory stores your blog administration files? Use FTP or your File Manager to review the contents of likely directories. Look for a directory containing a file called mt.cgi When you find the likely folder, look for a file called README.txt. When you view this file, you should see information about your current Movable Type software.